Issue - meetings

(A report by James Gilbert, Assistant Director – Corporate)

The Leader of the Council, Councillor Dale Broughton, introduced the report which sought formal designation of Mr Russell Stone as the Council’s Section 151 Officer, in accordance with Section 151 of the Local Government Act 1972.

Members were advised that Mr Stone had been appointed as Director of Finance for the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership following a competitive recruitment process undertaken by the Joint Chief Officer Employment Panel. His appointment had been supported by all three partner councils and was due to commence on 3^rd November 2025.

The designation of a Section 151 Officer was a statutory requirement and would ensure continuity in the Council’s financial governance arrangements. The designation would also apply across the Partnership, with each authority confirming the appointment through its own governance processes.

The Leader paid tribute to the outgoing Interim Director of Finance, Mr Brendan Arnold, acknowledging his significant contribution to the Council’s financial stability and performance during his tenure.

During debate, the following queries regarding the recruitment process were asked:

·       What had been the cost of engaging the executive search firm, Gatenby Sanderson, to support the appointment?

·       Which local authority Mr Stone had previously served as Chief Financial Officer for 15 years, as referenced in the report?

·       Why East Lindsey District Council did not appear to have been consulted on the designation, given its role as a partner authority?

In response, the Leader confirmed that East Lindsey District Council had been represented on the Joint Chief Officer Employment Panel and had participated fully in the recruitment process. He undertook to provide written responses to the remaining questions regarding costs and Mr Stone’s employment history.

The recommendation was moved by Councillor Dale Broughton and seconded by Councillor Mike Gilbert.

Resolved:

That Mr Russell Stone be designated as Boston Borough Council’s Section 151 Officer with effect from 3^rd November 2025.